Nehru Park, spread over more than 30 hectares, is proposed to be developed as a mini safari
Prayagraj : After remaining largely inaccessible to the public for nearly three decades, Nehru Park, once among Prayagraj’s most popular recreational destinations, is set for a major revival with the administration proposing to develop the over-30-hectare facility into a mini safari featuring deer, birds, nature trails and educational attractions. Divisional commissioner Lokesh M inspected the park with deputy GOC, Purva UP-MP Sub Area, Brigadier Navneet Dagar, municipal commissioner Sai Teja, PDA vice-chairman Rishiraj, DEO, Cantonment Board officials and other officials to examine the proposal. During the inspection, officials assessed the park’s natural landscape, topography and available area and discussed its development potential.
Nehru Park was developed in the late 1980s by the then Allahabad Development Authority on more than 123 acres of defence land surrounding Macpherson Lake. Because of its proximity to an ammunition dump and firing ranges, however, arrangements regarding the defence land were never formally settled, and security concerns later emerged. Stay updated with the latest Prayagraj news.
The facility will be used exclusively for safari activities. An entry plaza and mud track will be developed, while different species of deer and birds are planned to be brought to the park. Educational exhibitions and displays will be installed to help children learn about nature and wildlife. The details will be finalised in the detailed project report (DPR). A drone-based topographical survey will be conducted to prepare the project. Based on the survey, a joint MoU will be prepared between Army and Prayagraj Development Authority (PDA), specifying their roles, responsibilities and terms. The DPR will then be prepared with assistance from forest department experts and specialists. It will determine the development and implementation plan. The commissioner asked the divisional forest officer to provide support for developing vegetation suited to the park’s environment and the proposed safari. He also sought cooperation from Army units in developing and implementing the project, stressing coordination among departments and institutions involved. The long-term operation and maintenance plan was also discussed. PDA will undertake the development and maintenance of the park. Revenue generated from the facility will be utilised for its operation and maintenance. The administration will first improve the park’s existing condition. The commissioner directed that cleaning of the lake and the entire premises be taken up as a priority. The municipal corporation will tap drains flowing into the lake and arrange proper treatment of the waste water. Water hyacinth will be removed from the lake, while necessary vegetation will be pruned and the entire park premises cleaned. The park featured boating facilities, a toy train, amusement rides and a musical fountain. Public access was subsequently restricted by Army, and the park gradually fell into disuse. Download the TOI App.